Adjustable repair clamp for bell and spigot joints



Marh 13, 1934. l c; E NORTQN 1,951,034

ADJUSTABLE lREPAIR CLAMP FOR BELL AND SFIGOT JOINTS Filed Feb. 24, 19324 Sheets-Sheet l m 1 L( .30 7//3 ,f

y 24 z5 ,f y

j l l 5 f6 .9 l l j# WN I-:NTOR

ATTO RNEY March 13, 1934. l Q E, NORTQN `1,951,034

ADJUSTABLE REPAIR CLAMP FOR BELL AND SPIGOY'l1 JOINTS Filed Feb. 24,1952 4 Sheets-Sheet 2 EN OR 4 .i

ATTORNEY March 39 QE. C, E NOTON 1,951,034

ADJUSTABLE REPAIR CLAMP FOR BELL AND SPIGOT JOINTS Filed Feb. 24. 1932 4Sheets-Sheet 3 NvENToR lk\uJ @wir ATTORNEY March 13, 41934. Q NQRTQN1,951,034

ADJUSTABLE REPAIR CLAMP FOR BELL AND SPIGOT JOINTS Filed Feb. 24, 1932 4sheds-sheet 4 ATTORNEY Patented Mar. 13, 1934 ADJUSTABLE REPAIR CLAMPFoa BELL ANn srIGo'r JoIN'rs Charles E. Norton, Bradford,fPa., assignerto S. R. Dresser Manufacturing Company, Bradford, Pa., a corporation ofPennsylvania Application February 24, 1932, serial No. 594,815

ivciaims. (ci. 285-119) My invention consists in the novel featureshereinafter described,`reference being had to the accompanying drawingswhich show `several embodiments of the invention selected by me forpurposes of illustration, and said invention is fully disclosed in thefollowing description and claims.

My invention is a novel repair clamp or leak clamp for bell and spigotjoints in pipe lines, and adjustable radially to accommodate Variationsin 1I) the external diameters -of the pipes with which they are to beused. These clamps are used in large numbers for the repair of bell andspigot pipe lines laidmany years ago when little or no attempt had beenmade to standardize the diaml5 eters of such pipes, and when-very widevariations or tolerances were permitted. Even with modern bell andspigot pipe which is held to fairly close tolerances, it is made indiierent classes, frequently involving different thicknesses of pipewall for the same standard internal diamter, and, especially in thelarger sizes, the range of variation of the outside diameters of thevarious classes' of pipe of thesame nominal diameter, is very great.Thus, for example; in the nornuts for connecting`tl`ie clamping ring andbull ring, and forcing `the packing into gas tight en-v gagement withthe bell and spigot. `For emcient results, it is necessary that theinner edge of the clamping ring should vcome Vas close as possible tothe exterior of the spigot to prevent cold i'lowf: ing of the packing,usually rubber or rubber composition, therebetween. Furthermore, as thecirrior of the bell, the strain of the bolts is applied at aconsiderable radial distance from the circle of'resistancei. e., thepacking, resulting in a tendency of the clamping ring to roll or tlex ina direction to turn inside out, which prevents upon the packing. tAccording to my invention I form the clamping ring of a comparativelylarge number of independently movable segmentsof comparatively-v malsixteen inch size, it is found desirable to pro- "which results individing up the variation in pipe cle of the clamping bolts must clearthe exte the full application of the 'boltstrain or load f short length,each receiving usually a single bolt connected therewith at a pointremoved outwardly from the packing recess (although in some cases it mayreceive two or more), these segments being held in circular arrangementaround the pipe by non-elastic confining or tension element. engagingportions of the segment at a distance from the face of the ringcontaining the packing recess, and positively preventing outward .radialmovement of thesegments at such points in a G5 direction substantiallyperpendicular'. to the bolts. The recessed portions of the segments,however, can-move radially inwardly under the strain of the bolts tobring them into the desired close relation with the spigot, andaccommodate a very wid range in the variation thereof, while theresultant of the bolt strain on the ring segments will be applied in aninclined direction,` toward the packing ring, and will be greater thaneither the force exerted directly by the bolts, or the resistancedirectly sustained by the tension means.

In effect, each segment becomes a lever having a radial turning movementon a point adjacent to its engagement with the tension element to renderthe diameterof Vthe ring adjustable and to apply l the bolt strain tothe packing in the most emcient manner. The tension element may consistof bands extending around the entire series of seg- .ments, or of linksconnecting the segments, or of v a sectional ring connected with thevsegments, and

may be separable from or permanently connected with all or some of theclamping ring segments. Where it is connected with all of the segments,provision is made for separating portions of the tension element at oneor more points to facili- `tate placing the ringsections around thepipe. 17j;

The tension element may also in some instances be adjustable as tolength, if desired.Y y The largenumber of ring sections causes them l,V

to morevperfectly nt the contour oi `the pipe,"

diameter,- .accommodated by the ring, so that the' separation or gapbetween the ends of adjacent segments will ordinarily be small.Iffdesired.4

these points of separation may be bridged over, 1001` of suilicientwidth to -necessitate it, in order z to prevent cold llowing of the.packingftherethrough. This may be accomplished by means of bridgeplates which may be entirely separate from clamping'ring, or securedthereto. i

The 'joint between the clamping ring sections and the tension member ismore or less non-rigid -and facilitates change in the direction of theVresultant of force, .when the bolts are tightened. to apply suchresultant 4force most Velectively to .11

the. gasket and the location of these joints in a plane removed from theplane of the packing recess and gasket longitudinally with respect tothe axis of the ring increases the length of the turning movement ofeach section.

The specific construction of the clamping ring segments with specialreference to the engagement therewith of the tension element, and alsowith respect to the form of ,the packing recess, together with the crosssection of the packing, may be varied in many ways, a number of whichare shown in the various embodiments of the invention hereinafterdescribed.

The bull ring is also made adjustable to accommodate the wide variationsin the bells, and to this end I prefer to form it in sections withoverlapping portions having a plurality of opposed toothed surfaces,held together by the through bolts, or by separate short or sectionbolts, and providing an adjustment equal to one or more teeth at eachjoint between the sections of the bull ring which provides a wide rangeof adjustment.

My invention also comprises certain novel features of construction andcombination of parts hereinafter fully described and particularlypointed out in the claims.

Referring to the accompanying drawings, which show several embodimentsof my invention, selected by me for purposes of illustration,

Fig. 1 is a sectional view of an adjustable repair clamp embodying myinvention, applied to a bell and spigot joint, the parts of which areshown partly in section and partly in elevation.

Fig. 2 is an elevation of a portion of the clamp illustrated .in Fig. 1,broken away and showing three completeclamping ring segments. j

Fig. 3 is a detail sectional view of the connector for the ends of thetension member shown in Fig. l.

Fig. 4 is a detail section on line 4-4 of Fig. 3.

Fig. 5 is an elevation of a. portion of the bull ring shown in Fig. l,broken away.

. Fig. 6 is a detail section on line 6 6 of Fig. 5.

Fig. 7 is a detail section of clamping ring segments showing a slightmodification.

Fig. 8 is a similar view showing another slight modification.

Fig. 9 is a detail perspective view of one form of bridge piece,detached.

Fig. 10 is a detail perspective view of a portion of the packing showinga. -bridge piece molded therein.

Fig. 16 is a sectional view of the clamp shown in Fig. 15 on line 16--16thereof.

Fig. 17 is a detail view of one of the links shown in Figs. 15 and 16.

Fig. 18 is a view similar to Fig. 2, showing a clamp comprising afurther modified form of clamping ring segments, and tension element andbridge piece.

Fig. 19 is a section on line 19-19 of Fig. 18.

Fig. 20 is a detail view of one of the clamping ring segments shown inFigs. 18 and 19.

, Fig. 21 is a detail section through the meeting ends of two sectionsof the tension element shown in Figs. 18 and 19, on line 21--21 of Fig.18.

Fig. 22 is a detail view illustrating a slight modification in theconstruction of the tension element shown in Figs. 18, 19 and 20.

Fig. 23 is a detail perspective view of a modified form of bridge piece.

Fig. 24 is a view similar to Fig. 2, showing another modii'ied form ofclamp, in which a portion of the tension member comprises separate linksand other portions thereoffcomprise portions of the clamping ringsegments.

Fig. 25 is a view similar to Fig. 2, showing another modifled form ofclamp.

Fig. 26 is a section on line 26-26 of Fig 25,.

Fig. 27 is a section similar to Fig. 26, showing another modified formof Iclamping ring.

Fig. `28 is a horizontal section on line 28-28 of Fig. 27.

Referring to the embodiment of my invention illustrated in Figs. 1 to 6inclusive, I have shown in Fig. l, a bell and spigot joint, having therepair clamp applied thereto, 1, representing the spigot end of a belland spigot pipe section, 2, the bell, 3-4 any usual or preferred packinginterposed between the spigot and bell when the pipe line is laid, andcomprising the usual fibrous material, 3, and solid material, as lead orcement, 4. C represents the adjustable clamping ring as a whole, whichis composed of a plurality of short independently movable segmentsconnected only by a tension member, three of such segments beingillustrated in Fig. 2, adapted to substantially encircle the spigotmember, l, and to provide a substantially continuous packing recess, toengage a circular packing ring, 5, preferably formed of rubber or rubbercomposition. Each segment of the ring, C, is provided with a platemember, 6, inclined outwardly from a plane perpendicular with the axisof the ring, and provided adjacent to its inner edge with a recess, 7,vforming part of the packing recess of the ring and formed in thisinstance by a wall, 8, substantially perpendicular to the axis of thering, and an inclined wall, 9, extending outwardly therefrom and towardthe face of the ring. Each segment of the ring may be provided with boltconnecting means located at a distance outwardly from the packingengaging portion, usually in the form of one or more bolt receivingholes, and in this instance I have shown the plate member, 6, providedcentrally of the length of the segment with an outwardly extendingportion, 10, having a bolt hole, 11, therein, increasing slightly indiameter from the inner face of the plate member, reinforced by acircular web, 12, in the usual manner. The segment is also provided witha curved reinforcing fiange, 13, approximately parallel with the axis ofthe ring and extending rearwardly from the` rear face of theperpendicular wall, 8, for a considerable distance. The segment is alsoprovided preferably midway of its length, and in line with the bolthole, with a radially disposed lweb, 14, which is conveniently formedintegral with the reinforcing flanges, 13 and l2, and is of course anintegral part of the plate member. This web, 14, forms in effect a leverarm projecting centrally from the rear face of the segment in adirection almost at right angles with the plate member, 6, and the outerend of this web, 14, of each segment engages at a point located at adistance longitudinally with respect to the axis of the ring from thepacking recess a non-elastic tension member, 15, which extends entirelyaround the ring and holds the outer ends of the webs, 14, of all thesegments against outward i movement, and forms the only .means forconnecting the segments when in operative assembled relation. In Figs. 1to 6, the tension member is shown in the form of a' metal band, andpreferably composed 'of two thicknesses of metal,

15, 15', as shown in the drawings for convenience of assembling, as thetwo thin bands will be more ilexible than a single thickl band, and thisis advantageous in placing the ring around the spigot member of the pipecoupling. These bands may be made of rustless steel or other suitablemetal not subject to oxidation-or corrosion. The tension member ispreferably given a polygonal rather than a circular form, especiallywhen it is in the form of aband, and it may, if desired,

and preferaby is, permanently secured to each of the segments, so as tohold them in assembled relation, provision being made for opening thelring at one or more points temporarilyto permit it to be placed aroundthe pipe. In this instance the bands are shown as welded to the ribs,14, of the several segments, as indicated at 16. For the purpose ofdetachably connecting the end portions of the tension member, in thisinstance the bands, l5, 15', have their end portions bent 30 in oppositedirections, as indicated at 17, 17, and,

0 ments and the tension band can be opened up far enough to permit theclamping ring to be placed around pipe section, l, when the ends of theband are again united by the clip. The packing ring, 5, is usuallymolded as a ring and is severed at one point, usually by a diagonal cut,so that it can be placed around the pipe within the packing-recess ofthe clamping ring, and the meeting ends lapped. Variations in the sizeof the pipe will require, in most instances, the cut- 0 ting off of alarger or smaller portion from one end of the severed packing ring inorder that the ends may meet perfectly around the particular pipe. "Thepacking ring and clamping ring are then rolled along the pipe intoengagement with 5 the face of the bell, in the manner shown in Fig.

l, and coupling bolts, 24 are passed through bolt holes in 'a bull ring,indicated at B in Fig. 1, and hereinafter described, and through theseveral bolt holes. 11, of the ring segments, and are provided withnuts, 25, which are thereupon screwed up.'

` It will be noted` by reference to Fig. 1, that as the bolts aretightened, the plate member, 6, of each segment will be drawn in adirection .toward the bull ring, and also caused to swing inwardly inthe direction of the pipe, 1, since the outer ends of the lever likewebs, 14, are pre- ,vented from outward movement by the tension member,15, 15. vIn other words, by reason ci the angular relation between theplate member of each segment and the outwardly extending lever portionor web, 14, held rigidly against outward movement by the tension member,each segment has a theoretical axis adjacent to the tension member, andwhich may be indicated for purposes of description by the point, X, inFig. 1, the iiexing of the retaining member in this instance permittingthis turning movement. This construction, therefore, provides in thefirst place, avery wide range of adjustment of the diameter of thatportion of the packing ring containing the packing recess.

It will also be noted by reference to Fig. 1, that the load or strain ofthe bolts, 24, is exerted in'a direction parallel to the axis of thering and substantially perpendicular to the direction in which thestrain of the tension member is exerted to resist the outward movementof the engaged portions of the segment, to wit, the ribs, 14, from whichit follows that a. resultant force greater than leither is exerted bythe walls of the packing recess of the ring upon the packing ring in anyinclined direction, indicated by the dotted line, Y, in Fig. l, andtending to forcev the packing directly into the angle formed by theouter face of the pipe member, 1, and the perpendicular face of thebell, 2, and solid packing, 4. The increase in diameter in the boltholes, y11, will accommodate the slight changes in position between theplate member of each segment and the connected bolt, 24, as the boltsare tightened. It will also be noted that each bolt exerts its load orstrain independently upon one only of the segments and therefore eachsegment is free to move inwardly independentlyvof the others, thusenabling the ring to fit itself and the packing ring around the pipe andaccommodate any differences in the radii of different portions of itsexterior surface engaged by the packing.

It will be understood that the segments are made of such length that thedesired range of adjustment may be obtained without at any time bringingthe ends of the adjacent segments into direct contact. There will,therefore, always bel a gap or space .between the adjacent ends oiadjacent segments and these spaces will be greater when the ring isapplied to a pipe having a larger exterior diameter thanthey will bewhen the ring is applied to a pipe of smaller exterior diameter withinth range for which the ring is intended. When the ring is applied to apipe of such external diameter that these spaces are otvery smallextent, as an eighth of an inch or less, for example, these spaces donot in any way interfere with the proper operation of the clamp incompressing Athe rubber ring, 5, to effect a gas tight joint, but wherethe ring is used with a pipe of such external diameter that the gaps orspaces between the segments might otherwise permit a certain amount ofcold flowing of the rubber packing, I provide bridging meansfor engagingthe inner faces of the segments within the packing recess to bridge overthese gaps. These' bridge pieces are preferably in the form of shortlpieces of sheet metal, one of which` is indicated in detail in Fig. 9,the bridge piece being indicated as a whole at 26, and shown providedwith angularly disposed flanges, 27--28, preferably shaped to conform tothe contiguous faces of the packing recess and rubber ring. While it isnot necessary, the adjacent faces of the segments may be recessedadjacent to each end to accommodate the thickness of the bridge pieceand eachbridge piece may be secured at one end to one of the segments inposition to overlap the adjacent segment, either'by spot welding orriveting, or otherwise, if this seems to be desirable, and as isperfectly obvious. In some instances these position, to see that thebridge pieces were in Ves proper relation to the gaps between thesegments of the ring, which could be readily determined by placing anyone of the bridge pieces with its longitudinal center in line with thecen-v ter of one of the gaps or spaces.

By constructing the clamping ring in the manner previously described, itmay be made to operatively conform to pipe sections having a Wide rangeof divergence in their external diameters. even as great as threequarters of an inch or more in the larger sizes. These repair clamps areused for the repair of leaky bell and spigot' joints occurring in pipelines which may frequently have been laid many years ago, and where theactual outside diameter of the pipe and bell is frequently unknown untilthe leaking joint is uncovered, my repair clamp will adapt itself to allordinary or possible variations in the outside diameter of the pipes forany nominal size and facilitates the repair,- and at the same time savesthe expense of making the rings in split sizes, avoids delay in keepingthe excavation open, which may frequently be in the midst of a busystreet, and prevents the waste of a valuable product as gas or oil, andpossibly injury to adjoiningproperty.

In connection with the adjustable clamping ring having such a wide rangeof adjustment, it isdesirable, and in many cases necessary that the bullring shall also be adjustable in order .to accommodate variations in thesize of the bell, although the bull ring does not have to t the bell asaccurately as the clamping ring does. It is extremely important that theinner edge ofthe -iiange, 8, of each clamping ring segment shall come asclose as possible to the outer face of the .spigot portion of the pipesection without touching it in order to prevent cold flowing of therubber or pinching of the rubber at this point. This of course is notinvolved in connection with the bull ring. I have, however, shown inFig. 1, and in detail in Figs. 5 and 6, a bull ring which is likewiseadjustable to meet the conditions previously described. The bull ring,B, is also composed of a plurality of segments as shown best in Figs. 5and 6, although it is not necessary that there be the same number ofsegments in the bull ring that there are in the clamping ring. As.

shown in Figs. 5 and 6, the bull ring is composed of a number osegments, 30, "each of which is provided at its inner edge with inwardlyprojecting lugs or flanges, 31, to engage the exterior of the bell, asshown in Fig. 1. The bull ring segments are preferably formed of castmetal and provided with reinforcing flanges, indicated at32, forsecuring the desired strength without undue weight. Each segment isprovided also with the requisite number of Abolt holes to substantiallyregister with the bolt`holes inthe clamping ring with which the bullring is to he used, and each segment is provided with end portions,33-34, which are of less thickness than the other portions of the ringand which overthis instance indicated at 36, to accommodate variationsin the diameter of the ring. In order vto rmly lock the overlapping endportions of the bull ring segments together when in operative position,and at vthe same time provide for the adjustment of the diameter of thering, the adjacent faces of said overlapping portions, 33-34, ofadjacent sections are serrated, preferably by providing them withinterengagingteeth, indicated at 38`in Fig. 6. Any desired number ofthese' teeth lmay be provided according to the desired range ofadjustment.- It will be understood that this construction provides forthe enlargement of the ring, one tooth or more at each of the jointsbetween the bull ring segments, and assuming that the ring comprisesfour segments, and that each segment may be adjusted to the extent oftwo or more teeth, it will be seen that a very wide range of adjustmentis provided, the width of a single tooth at one of such joints only ofthe ring to the maximum number of teeth permitted at all of the joints.In the form of bull ring illustrated in Figs. 1, 5 and 6, the serratedor toothed overlapping ends of the bull ring segments are drawn intorigid engagement with each other by the through bolts, 24, which in thisinstance pass through the bult holes, 36, 37, of the engaged parts, asclearly shown in Figs. 5 and 6. It is obvious, however, that it is notnecessary that the through bolts should pass through the overlappingportions of the segments, and that in' such case they can be heldtogether in a ally te med section bolts, and nuts, in a manner simila tothat illustrated in Fig. 21, in which the overlapping portions of adifferent ring are so connected.

In Fig. 7 I have illustrated a slight modification of the clamping ringsegment shown in Figs. 1 and 2, in which the portion of the segmentwhich engages the tension member, here designated as a whole atv 15a, isrecessed to receive the tension member. AIrl this gure the radial leverweb, 14a, is provided with a recess, 39, to lreceive the tension member,which is secured therein by welding, indicated at 16a. The constructionis otherwise exactly as hereinbefore described.

In Fig. 8 I have illustrated a slightly different means for connectingthe segments of the clamping .ring with the tension member. vIn thisinstance, the segment, which is formed of malleable cast iron, has itsradial lever web, indicated at 14h, provided with an open slot,indicatedat 40, to receive the tension member, which in this instance isa single band, indicated at 15b, and the web, 14h, is providedywith asuitable projection, 41, which may be bent downward over the outer edgeof the bend to confine it in engagement with the slot, 40. Theconstructions illustrated in Figs.v 7 and 8 are merely illustrative ofdifferent ways in which the segments maybe permanently united with thetension member. 4

It will be understood that in forming av clamp# ing ring comprisingsegments and tension member, in accordance with my invention, the formcross sectionof the packing ring co-operating therewith. As the'segments are otherwise constructed exactly as prevously described, theparts, r

In Fig. 11, for example, which shows theiclamp i before it is drawn upby the bolts, the packing recess is formed by the ilanges, 8c and 9c,which diier slightly in relative width from those shown in Fig. 1, forexample, the outer face of the packing ring, 5c, being of greater widththan the face, 8c, of the recess and the inclined ace ofthe rubberpacking, which engages the antween the pipe and the face of the bell,and as the rubber becomes `distorted. it gradually assumes theconfiguration of the recess.

In Fig. 12 the packing engaging portion of each segment is formed byflanges, 8d and 9d, which meet substantially perpendicularly. In thiscase the packing ring, 5d, is rectangular in cross section, and in thisconstruction the bridge pieces, instead of being made in one piece willconsist of separate plates, 27d and 28d, and the plate, which may be acontinuous annular band, 27d, must obviously be made sufficiently narrowso that its inner edge will not engage the wall, 28d, of the recess whenthe clamping ring is drawn up. f

In some instances the packing recess of the clamping ring may besegmental instead of angular in cross section. Thus in Fig. 13 I haveshown the recess as having a concave wall, indicated at 8e, and theouter face of the packing ring, 5e, correspondingly formed. Where thisconcave form is used, I iind it desirable to provide the wall, 8e, aboutcentrally thereof, with an inwardly extending rib or projection,indicated at 8e in this igure, which cornes first into contact with theconvex outer surface of the packing ring, and forces the latter intolirm engagement with the pipe and bell face, and is thereafter forcedinto the convex surface of the packing, and interlocked therewith. Thisprojection or rib may, however, be omitted. Obviously the bridge piecesused with this form of segment, one of which is indicated at 26e, willconform to the inner face of the packing recess, as shown.

Fig. 14 illustrates a further modification, in which the packingengaging portion of each segment, instead of being a recess, is a convexwall, indicated at 8f. In this case the packing ring,

which is indicated at 5f, will have :an exteriorV concave facesubstantially conforming to the convex face 8f, and the bridge pieceswhere used will be of the concave-convex form, shown at 2.6i.

It will be understood that where either the concave or convex packingengaging portions are provided on the ring segments, they will have acurvature substantially coaxial with a point in the line of theresultant of force, indicated by the dotted lines, Y and Y2, in Figs. 13and 14.

In Figs. 15, 16 and 17,1 have illustrated a modified form of clampingring in which each of the segments is provided at a distance from theplane of its packing engaging portion, with a stud or projection, thestuds or projections of the several segments being connected by links,and thereby forming the tension member of the ring. In Fig. 15, B',represents the bull ring, which may be constructed as hereinbeforedescribed, and C represents the clamping ring, the parts of which.

are given the same reference numerals as in Figs. 1 and 2, with theaddition of 100. The clamping ring, C', is formed of a plurality ofsegments, each of which comprises the plate member, 106, provided withthe packing engaging portions, which in this instance are formed by theinclined walls, 108 and 109, the plate member being provided with anoutwardly extending portion, 110, having a bolt hole, 111, therein, aspreviously described. The outer face of each segment is provided with ahorizontally disposed stud, 114, which is conveniently formed in line'with the bolt hole, 111, and at the junction of radial and lateralreinforcing flanges, 113. The outer end ci the stud, 114, is located ata considerable distance from the plane of the plate member, 106, and ispreferably of cylindrical form, as shown, and provided at its outer endwith malleable projections,4 114e. The clamping ring is completed bylinks, 115,*preferably formed of malleable cast iron, like the clampingring segments, one of which links is illustrated in detail in Fig. 17.Each link is preferably bifurcated at one end to provide the parallelarms, 115a, having apertures, 115i), therein, to t over one of thestuds, 114, the other end of the link being provided with an aperture,115e. The thin end of each link is inserted between the bifurcatedportions of the adjacent link, slipped over one of the projections, 114,and secured in position thereon, by bending outwardly the pro- Yjections, 114e, as clearly shown in Fig. 15. In

this manner the studs, 114, of all the segments constituting the ringmay be readily connected by the links, 115, these links and the engagedportions of the studs, 114, constituting the ten sion member of thering. In practice, the segments and links will be assembled andpermanently connected with the exception of a single stud, so that thering can be placed around the pipe and the last link connection madeafter the ring is in position.

The-operation of the clamping ring in compressing the packing making atight joint, will be exactly the saine as that previously described, theengagement ot the links, 115, with the studs, 114, preventing theoutward movement of the studs, 114, when the bolts are tightened,permitting the segments to rock inwardly into proper relation with thespigot member of the joint and compensate for variations in the diameterthereof. It will be understood that the apertures, 1151) and 115e, inthe links are suiliciently larger than the studs, 114, to form a loosejoint and permit the turning movement of each of the segments withrespect to the tension member, as previously described. The force of thebolts applied to the packing will be the resultant of the bolt strainexerted 'in a line parallel to the axis of the ring, and the retainingforce of the tension member exertedin a plane perpendicular thereto, theforce being applied in the general direction indicated by the dottedline at YB. The turning moment of the ring segments will in thisinstance be about a theoretical axis located in each of the studs, 114,and indicated for example approximately at X' in Fig. 16. It will benoted that in this instance the tension member which alone connects thesegments of the clamping ring is comprised in part of portions of thesegments that is the studs, and in part by extraneous elements, that isthe separate links, 115, the tension member constituting a circularmember extending entirely around the ring and around the spigot memberofthe joint as in the previously described embodiment of my invention.

In Figs. 18 to 21 inclusive, I have illustrated another modification ofmy invention, in which the tension member comprises a ring separate fromthe sections of the clamping ring and preferably formed in segments,adjustably connected together so that the tension member itself can beadjusted if desired, and this embodiment of my invention is foundparticularly desirable in segments for pipes of very large diameters. Inthese figures the parts corresponding with those previously describedwith respect to Figs. 1 and\2, are given the same reference numeralswith the addition of 200.

In Figs. 18 and 19, B2, represents the bull ring, which may be of thesame construction as that previously illustrated and described, and C2,represents the clamping ring, comprising a plurality of segments vformedpreferably of malleable cast iron, each of which comprises a platemember, 206, in this instance provided with two outwardly projectingportions, 210, each provided with a bolt hole, 211, so that each segmentis acted upon by two bolts, 224, instead of a single bolt, as in theforms previously described. One advantage of using more than one bolt inconnection with a segment of the clamping ring is that where a singlebolt is employed, there is a slight tendency for the segment to twist,as the nut is screwed up, tending to move one end of the segmentinwardly and the other outwardly. This tendency is entirely neutralizedwhere two bolts are connected to each segment. The plate member isprovidedl with the packing engaging portion, in this instance a recessprovided by the walls, 208-209, and the outer face of the segment isstrengthened by the radial webs, 214, in line with each bolt hole, andby laterally extending webs, 213, which Webs practically converge at twopoints in a radial line with the respective bolt holes to form bearingshoulders, 214a, beyond which project studs, 214b, provided at theirouter ends with the malleable projections, 214e.

The tension element in this instance comprises a ring, 215, alsopreferably formed of cast or malleable cast ironfand constructed insections, although it is not necessary that there should be as manysections in the tension element as there are in the clamping ring. Iprefer to construct the tension ring, 215, with half the number ofsegments that are used in the clampingring itself, so that each segmentof the ring, 215, engages the shoulders, 214 a, of two clamping ringsegments. 'Ihe ring, 215. comprises a at section provided with aplurality of apertures, 215a, in this instance four in number for eachsection of the ring, 215, and each section of the ring, 215, is providedadjacent to each of the apertures, 215a, with a horizontally disposedange, 215b, to engage the shoulder, 214a, of the adjacent section. Thestuds, 21412, of the segments extend through apertures, 215a, of thering, 215, and the projections, 21411, thereof are bent outwardly topermanently connect the clamping ring segments with the section` ofring, 215, as shown in Fig. 19. Each section ofthe tension ring, 215, isalso provided adjacent to each bolt hole with perpendicular webs,indicated at 215e, on opposite sides of the apertures, 215m, tostrengthen the tension element at these points, and the apertures, 215a,increase in diameter from the `inner face of the tension ring segmentoutwardly to allow freedom of movement to accommodate the turningmovement of the clamping ring segments. The tension ring sections areprovided with overlapping portions. 215d, as

shown in Fig. 21, which preferably have their meeting faces providedwith teeth, as indicated at 215e, and said overlapping portions areprovided with elongated slots, indicated at 215f, to accommodate a shortsection bolt, 215g, provided with a nut, 21517,. This connection issimilar to the connection between the ends of the bull ring sectionspreviously described, and permits an adjustment of from one to anydesired number of teeth at each joint between the sections of the ring,215, which joints occur at proper intervals between the radial positionsoccupied by the through bolts, 224, as clearly indicated in Fig. 18.

By reference to Fig. 19, it will be seen that when the parts of theclamping ring just described are assembled around a spigot member, 201,in conjunction with the packing ring, 205, and bull ring, B2, and thebolts are tightened, the turning moment of the segments will cause theshoulders, 214a, to bear outwardly against the inner faces of theflanges, 21517, of the tension ring, 215, which of course prevents anymovement in this direction. The engagement of the shoulder, 2141i, andflange, 215b, forms a sort of knuckle and the engaged surfaces of theseparts are conveniently rounded to facilitate the turning movement of thesegments, which will occur about a theoretical axis indicated at X2.

In Fig. 22 I have illustrated a slight modification of these parts drawnto an enlargedscale, in which the parts corresponding with those justdescribed are given the same reference characters with the addition of100. In this instance the stud, indicated at 31419, is provided with themalleable projections, 314e, disposed laterally with respect to eachother, so that they may be bent outwardly and laterally into contactwith a U-shaped boss, 315x, on the outer face of the tension ring, 315,the exterior edges of this boss being curved substantiallyconcentrically. with the theoretical axis of the turning moment of theclamping ring segments indicated at X3, in Fig. 22. The object of thisconstruction is to insure the freedom of this turning moment and thenecessary relative movement between the tension ring, 315 and theshoulders, 314a, of the clamping ring segments at all times even if themalleable projections, 314e, should be bent over into very firmengagement with the outer face of the tension ring, which in thisinstance would be the curved outer faces of the bosses, 315x.

It will be understood that where the separation between the ends of theclamping ring segments is sumcient to require it, bridge pieces will beinserted as previously described in Fig. 19. I have shown a modifiedform of bridge piece, which is illustrated in detail in Fig. 23, andwhich is so constructed that it will maintain itself in position withrespect to the clamping ring segments. This bridge piece, indicated as awhole at 226, is provided with the integral flanges, 227 and 228, and ismade preferably of sheet metal as previously described, and preferablyof spring material. The flange, 227, is extended over a considerabledistance and bent over upon itself as shown in Figs. 19 and 23, toprovide a spring clamping portion, 229, which can bev made to engage-theouter face of the flange, 209, of a clamping ring segment, adjacent tothe end of the segment, where the plate member is of reduced width, thusholding the bridge piece Within the packing recess of the clamping ringin a position to extend over the gap or space between the adjacent endsof the segments thereof, and facilitating the assembly of the repairclamp around the joint to to Fig. 19, that when the bolts, 224,connecting the clamping ring segments with the bull ring are tightened,the portions of the clamping ring segments, containing the packingrecess will be forced inwardly to compress the packing ring, 205, andwill compensate for any variations in the exterior diameter of thespigot member, 201. If such variation is suiiiciently great to requireit, the tension ring, 215, can be adjusted to increase or decrease thediameter of the tension ring or member, but it will be ui'iderstood thatin all the positions to which the tension ring may be adjusted, thisring is non-expansible and .its engagement with the shoulders, 214e, ofthe clamping ring segments prevents any outward movement thereof.

In Fig. 24 I have illustrated another modified form of the clampingring, in which the tension element is constituted in part by portionsoi' the clamping ring segments, and in part by extraneous links,operatively connected therewith, so as to entirely encircle the pipe.The parts illustrated in this figure which correspond with those inFigs. 1 and 2 are given the same reference characters with the additionof 400. In this embodiment, the plate member, l3:06, of each segment isprovided with two outwardly projecting portions, 410, provided with thebolt holes, 411, so that two bolts are directly connected with eachsegment, although this is not essential. On its 'outer face eachsegment'is provided with radial reinforcing webs, 414, invline with thebolt holes, which webs are connected in` this instance by a lateralreinforcing web, 41511, which forms a part oit the tension element ofthe clamping ring. At the intersection of the flanges, 414 and 4:15a, ofeach segment is provided a linlr securing means, which in this instanceis in the form of a socket recess, 415i), to receive an enlarged head,415e, on a connecting link, l5:15, which extends from the socket recess,4155, adjacent to one end of each segment to the corresponding recess inthe adjacent segment, as clearly illustrated in Fig. 24.

In assembling the parts of the clamping ring shown in this figure, theymay be connected by the links, 415. which not only connect the segments,but also form with the webs, 415D, a circular tension member extendingentirely around the ring and surrounding the pipe, and holding theclamping ring segments at points remote from the plane of the packingrecess of the ring from outward movement, in the manner hereinbeforedescribed.

In the embodiments of my invention hereinbefore described, the tension`element is shown connected )with the clamping ring segments at pointawithin the bolt circle, the parts of each segment acted upon by thebolts and by the tension memberrespectively being disposed angular- `lywith respect to each other and with the packving recess, and exertingthe compressing action on the packing in an angular 4line between saidpoints of engagement with the bolts and the tension member. In Figs. and26 I have shown a modified form of the clampng ring in which the tensionmember is connected with the clamping ring segments at points exteriorto the bolt circle bringing the axis of 'the turning moment oi eachsegment in close alignment with the axis of the bolt connected therewithand applying the bolt pressure in a direct line through the clampingring, substantially coincident with the resultant of force. In thisembodiment in which the clamping ring as a Whole is indicated at .C5y

be repaired. It will be clearly seen by referenceI the partscorresponding with those shown in Figs. 1 and 2, are given the samereference numerals with the addition of 500. Each segment in thisinstance is provided with a plate member, 506, having an outwardlyextending portion, 510, provided with bolt hole, 511, and also providedon the outer side 0f the bolt hole with a tension shoulder, 514e, fromwhich projects a securing stud, ia-lflb, provided with malleableprojections, 514e. ".llhe packing recess. is in this instance of aconcave .form and constituted by the anges, 509 and 508, andthe segmentsuitably/'reinforced in this instance by radial web, 514, `which extendstrom the flange, 508, to an annular flange, 512,

surrounding the bolt hole, 511. The packing ring, 505, is provided withconvex outer face, and 526 represents a suitable bridge piece which maybe used if necessary. sionmember, indicated at 515, is shown as a bandwhich may be of stainless steel or other suitable metal, and is providedwlthapertures fitting over the studs, 514e, and secured thereto bybending over the projections, 55.40. This tension element engages theshoulders, 51de, of each clamping ring segment and has its endsconnected by a clip, 516, similar to the clip illustrated in Figs. 3 and4, or the ends may be connected in any other desired manner.

When the clamping ring just described is assembled around a bell andspigot joint in connection with a bull ring, B5, in the manner indicatedin Fig. 26, and the bolts are tightened it will be obvious that theclamping ring segments will have a turning moment on a theoretical axisindicated approximately at X5, of the bolt circle. enabling the segmentsto swing inwardly and compensate for variations in the external diameterof the spigot member, 501, while the force of the bolt load will betransmitted as a resultant of forces approximately along the dottedvline. indicated at Y5, which very nearly coincides with. the plane ofthe plate member. 506. so that the resultant of force will betransmitted to the packing ring in a very direct manner through theclamping ring segments and with comparatively little change in theposition of the clamping ring segments with respect tothe bolts.

In Figs. 27 and 28 I have illustrated another modication of myinvention, in which the axis of the turning moment of each clamping ringsegment intersects the axis of the through bolt connected. therewith.The parts of the construction illustrated in these two figures whichcorrespond with those shown in Figs. 1 and 2 are given the samereference numerals with the. addition of 600. In these rlgures, theclaninine.r ring comprises a plurality of ring segments each having thisinstance the ten-` a plate member, 606, provided with flanges,

608-609, the inner faces of which form the packing recess, in thisinstance of concave form in cross section to engage the convex face of apacking ring, 605. The central portions of the plate member. 606, areextended outwardly and provided with a pair of rounded shoulders orbearing portions, 61411, the portions ofthe plate member between whichare cut away as indicated at 6141), to permit the passage of the bolt,624,therethrough. The tension element is in this instance.

The parts are shown assembled in conjunction so that the line, Y6,indicating a resultant of forces acting on the packing will be exertedsubstantially in line with theplate member, 606,

of each clamping ring segment. At the same time the portions of the ringsegments containing the packing recess are adjustable to accommodatevariations in the diameter of the spigot member, 6 01, with winch thering may be used with very slight changes in the angular relationbetween lghfle clamping ring segments and the through o ts.

In all the embodiments of my invention herein shown and described, itwill be noted that the clamping ring segments are connected with eachother only through their connection with the tensionelement or member,which extendsentirely around the ring and pipe, engaging portions of thesegments at a distance from a plane passing through the packing recessperpendicular to the axis of the ring, and holding the engaged portionsof the clamping ring segments against radial movement outwardly in adirection perpendicular to the bolt strain, so that the portions of eachrng segment is given an independent turning moment to accommodate notonly variations in the external diameters of the particular pipe sectionwith which the ring is used, but also to accommodate variations in theouter surface of the pipe itself, such as variations from a perfectlytrue circle, or variations in the thickness of the pipe wall atparticular` points around the same. The strain of the through bolts isexerted in lines parallel with the axis of the ring and pipe, while thestrain of the tension member is exerted in a i plane perpendicularthereto, and the resultant force greater than either of these stressesis transmitted directly to the packing, and in an inclined directiontoward the angle formed at the intersection of the exterior of the pipeand the face of the bell and its solid packing, and resulting in allcases in the forming of a tight joint between the packing and saidintersecting faces.

What I claim and desire to secure by Letters Patent is:

1. A self adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality of segments,each provided with a packing engaging portion, bolt receiving portionslocated at a greater distance from the axis of the ring than the packingengaging portion, a substantially circular tension element connectedwith each of said segments, at points at a distance longitudinally withrespect to the axis of the ring from the plane of the packing engagingportions, for holding the segments at said points against outwardmovement, each segment having a turning moment with respect to saidtension element permitting the packing engaging portions thereof to moveinwardly toward the axis of the ring.

2. A self adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality of segmentseach provided with a plate member disposed at an..angle to the axis ofthe ring, and having at its inner edge packing engaging portions, saidplate member being provided with bolt receiving means, said ringsegments be'ng provided with tension shoulders disposed substantiallyparallel to the axis of the ring, and extending rearwardly of thepacking engaging portions of .the ring, and -an annular tension bandextending aroundand engaging the tension shoulders of all the segments,and per- .said tension element.

manently connected therewith and holding the ments inring formation,said tension band Abeing -member disposed atan angle to the axis of the'ring, and having at its inner edge packing engaging portions, said plate,member being provided with bolt-receiving means, said ring segmentsbeing provided with tension shoulders disposed substantially parallel tothe axis of the ring, and located on the outer side of they bolt circleof the ring and at a distance longitudinally with respect to the axis ofthe ring from the plane of the packing engaging portions of the ring,and an annular tension element extending around the ring and engagingsaid shoulders, to hold them against outward movement, each segmenthaving a turning moment with respect to said tension element.

4. A self adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality of segmentseach provided with a plate member disposed at an angle to the axis ofthe ring, and having at its inner edge packing engaging portions, saidplate member being provided with bolt receiving means, said ringsegments being providedwith tension shoulders disposed substantiallyparallel to the axis oi the ring, and located on the outer side of thebolt receiving portions of the plate member, and an annular tensionelement having portions for engag'ng said shoulders of all of thesegments, and bolt apertures adjacent thereto, each segment having aturning moment with respect to said tension element on an axissubstantially in line with the axis of the adjacent bolt aperture in 5.A self adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality of independentlymovable segments provided with packing engaging portions, bolt receivingportions located at a greater distance from the axis'of the ring thanthe packing engaging portion, and tension shoulders located at adistance longitudinally with respect to the axis of the ring from theplane of the packing engaging portions, a tension element connecting thetension shoulders of said segments for`-holding them against outwardmovement while permitting the independent'.` inward movement o1' thepacking engaging portions of each segment with respect to said tensionelement, and bridge pieces extending across the spaces between the endsof adjacent segments and engaging the packing engaging portionsthereof.'

6. A self-adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality ofindependently movable segments provided with packing engaging portionsadjacent to their inner edges, and provided with means for securingclamping bolts thereto at points lorcated at a distance outwardly fromsaid packing plurality of, independently movable segments provided withsegmental packing engaging portions adjacent to their inner edges, andprovided with means for securing clamping bolts thereto at pointslocated at a distance outwardly from said packing engaging portions, andmeans engaging said' segments at Vpoints removed longitudinally withrespect to the axis of the ring from said packing engaging portions, forholding said segments assembled in ring formation, and producing in eachof said segments an inwardly turning movement under strain applied tosaid bolt connecting means.

8. A self-adjusting packing ring comprising a plurality of segments,each provided with a packing engaging portion and having a portionadapted to receive a clampingbolt located at a greater` distance fromthe axis of the ring than the packing engaging portion, and a portionextending rearwardly from the packing engaging portion of each segment,and tension means engaging said rearwardly extending portions forholding said segments in ring formation, said segments adapted underpressure from said clamping bolts to react against said tension means toforce said packing engaging portion in a direction toward the axis ofthe ring.

9. A self-adjusting packing ring comprising a plurality of segments,each provided with a packing engaging portion and having a portionadapted to receive a clamping' bolt located at a greater distance fromthe axis of the ring than the packing engaging portion, and a portionextending rearwardly from the packing engaging portion of v packingengaging portion in a direction toward the axis of the ring, saidtension means 'having a detachable connection to facilitate the placingof the ring around a pipe section; t

l0. A self-adjusting packing ring comprising a plurality of segments,each provided with a packing engaging portion, and having a portionadapted to receive a clamping bolt located at a greater distance fromthe axis of the ring than the packingl engaging portion and a portionextending rearwardly from the packing engaging portion of each segment,a substantially circular tension element engaging said rearwardlyextending portions for holding said segments inring formation, saidsegments adapted under pressure from said clamping bolts to reactagainst said tension means to force said packing engaging portion inportion of each segment, and substantially circular tension meansengaging said rearwardly extending portions for holding said segments inring formation, said segments adapted under pressure from said clampingbolts to react against said tension means to force said packing engagingportion in a direction toward the axis -of the ring said tension elementbeing formed of segments having overlapping portions, provided withtransversely disposed interengaging serrated portions and bolts forholding said interengaging serrated portions rigidly in adjustedrelation.

12. A self-adjusting packing ring comprising a plurality of segments,each provided with a packing engaging portion, and having a portionadapted to receive a clamping bolt located at a greater distance fromthe axis of the ring than the packing engaging portion, and a tensionshoulder extending in a direction parallel with the axis of the ringrearwardly from the packing engaging portion of each segment and lyingin the same axial plane and in substantial alignment with the boltreceiving portion, and a vsubstantially circular tension member havingportions engaging the tension shoulder or each ring segment, and holdingsaid shoulder against outward movement, while permitting the independentinward movement of the packing engaging portions of each segment, underthe action of bolt strain applied to said bolt receiving portionsthereof.

13. A self-adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality ofindependently movable segments provided with packing engaging portions,bolt receiving portions located at a greater distance from the axis ofthe ring than the packing engaging portions and tension 'shouldersextending in a direction parallel with the'axis of the ring rearwardlyfrom the packing engaging portions and provided with attaching studs, asubstantially circular tension member having apertures to engage saidstuds of all the sections and means for securing said studs inengagement with said apentures.

141A self-adjusting clamping ring comprising ll@ a plurality ofindependently movable segments, provided with packing engaging portions,vbolt receiving portions located at a greater distance from the axis ofthe ring than the packing engaging portion and tension shoulders lyingin llo vsubstantially the same radial plane with the bolt receivingportions` of the ring, and located at a distance longitudinally withrespect to the axis of the ring from the packing engaging portions, andprovided with attaching studs, a substantially circular tension memberhaving bearing portions to engage said shoulders and apertures to engagethe attaching studs carried by said shoulders, and means adapted topermanently secure said studs in engagement with said apertures.v

15. 4A self-adjusting packing ring comprisin a plurality of segments,provided with packing engaging portions, bolt receiving portions locatedat a greater distance from the axis of thering than the packing engagingportions, and tension shoulders substantially in the saine radial planewith the bolt receiving portions of the ring and a substantiallycircular tension member having portions engaging the tension shouldersof each -ring segment and holding said shoulders against outwardmovement, while permitting the independent inward movement of thepacking engaging portions of each segment, under the action of boltstrain applied to said bolt receiving portions thereof, said tensionring being formed of segments having overlapping ends provided withtransversely serrated interengaging faces, bolts for clamping said facesrigidly in their adjusted position, saidtension ring having portions toengage said shoulders and apertures to engage said studs, and bendableattaching projections on said studs for permanently securing saidtension ring and segments together; Y

16. A repair clamp comprising a self-adjusting clamping ring consistingof a plurality of separate segments, each provided with a packingengaging portion and having a bolt receiving portion located at agreater distance from the axis of the ring than the packing engagingportion of each segment, an adjustable bull ring having bolt receivingportions, bolts passing through the bolt receiving portions of saidsegments and said ring for clamping the two together, a portionextending rearwardly from the packing engaging portion of each segment,a tension element engaging said rearwardly extending portion of eachsegment to hold them against outward movement, while permitting theinward movement of the packing engaging portions of each segment lunderstrain applied to the bolt receiving portions thereof, said tensionelement being adjustable to vary the diameter thereof.

17. A self-adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality ofindependently movable segments provided with packing engaging portions,and having a portion adapted to receive a clamping bolt located at agreater distance from the axis of the ring than the packing engagingportion, and a portion extending rearwardly of the packing engagingportions of each segment, a tension element connecting said rearwardlyextending portions for holding them against outward movement whilepermitting the independent inward movement of the packing engagingportions of each segment with respect to said tension element, 'andsheet metal bridge pieces extending across the spaces between the endsofadjacentl

